by Anaheim, California — A group of burglars tunneled through a wall into a Southern California collectible store early Wednesday morning, stealing nearly $200,000 worth of rare Pokémon cards in what police describe as a calculated and targeted break-in.
According to the Anaheim Police Department, the burglary occurred in the early morning hours at DOWE Collectibles in the 1100 block of North Harbor Boulevard.
Suspects Smashed Through Wall
Investigators say the suspects first broke into a neighboring office space before using a sledgehammer to smash through drywall and create a hole leading directly into the collectible shop.
Security footage reportedly captured masked individuals entering through the wall before using sledgehammers to shatter glass display cases.
Police estimate the suspects stole approximately $180,000 worth of Pokémon cards.
The thieves allegedly filled large black bags with high-value trading cards before fleeing the scene.
Owner Describes Shock
Shop owner Duy Pham said he received an alert on his phone and quickly checked the store’s surveillance feed.
“I clicked on the footage and saw guys coming through the hole,” Pham said. “My heart was pounding. I called 911 right away and rushed over here.”
Pham noted that the burglars appeared focused solely on the valuable trading cards.
“They didn’t touch our computers or cameras. They were here for the cards.”
Video from the aftermath showed extensive interior damage, including broken display cases and a large hole in the wall between the two businesses.
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High-Value Cards Targeted
The owner said the rising value of rare Pokémon cards may be fueling such crimes.
“One card can be worth up to $10,000,” Pham explained. “People see the money is there.”
He added that operating in the collectible card business can feel risky given the soaring market prices.
“When you’re in this business, you feel like you have a target on your back.”
Trend of Collectible Store Thefts
This burglary is the latest in a string of high-dollar collectible thefts across the Los Angeles area. Earlier this year, thieves reportedly stole hundreds of thousands of dollars in Pokémon cards and related merchandise in separate incidents.
As of now, no arrests have been made in the Anaheim case. Detectives say they are actively following up on leads.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Do you think the rising value of collectible cards is making specialty shops bigger targets for organized theft? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
